PA6 (Nylon 6) vs POM-C (Acetal Copolymer): Both workhorse engineering plastics β different strengths
PA6 (Nylon 6) vs POM-C (Acetal Copolymer)
Side-by-side chemical composition and mechanical property comparison.
Overview
PA6 (Nylon 6)
Polyamide 6 (Nylon 6) β the most widely used engineering thermoplastic. Excellent combination of mechanical strength, toughness, wear resistance, and chemical resistance. Properties are moisture-sensitive β conditioned (50% RH) values are significantly lower than dry values. Trade names include Ultramid B (BASF), Akulon (DSM), Zytel (DuPont). Used for gears, bearings, bushings, cable ties, structural brackets, and automotive under-hood components.
POM-C (Acetal Copolymer)
Polyoxymethylene Copolymer β the precision engineering plastic. Exceptional dimensional stability, low moisture absorption (0.2%), low friction coefficient, and excellent machinability. More hydrolysis-resistant and chemically stable than POM-H (homopolymer). No centerline porosity in stock shapes. Trade names include Hostaform (Celanese), Ertacetal C (MCAM), Duracon (Polyplastics). Used for gears, bearings, valve bodies, pump parts, electrical insulators, and food/medical contact parts.
| PA6 (Nylon 6) | POM-C (Acetal Copolymer) | |
|---|---|---|
| Material Number | β | β |
| Category | Polymers | Polymers |
| Standard | ISO 10350 | ISO 10350 |
Chemical composition (wt%) β Pro
| Element | PA6 (Nylon 6) | POM-C (Acetal Copolymer) | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polycaprolactam (from Ξ΅-caprolactam) | 99β99.9% | β | β |
| Polyoxymethylene (OCH2 units) | β | 95β99% | β |
| Ethylene Oxide Co-Monomer | β | 1β5% | β |
Mechanical properties β Pro
| Property | PA6 (Nylon 6) | POM-C (Acetal Copolymer) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 75β85 | 60β67 | MPa |
| Yield Strength | 70β80 | 58β62 | MPa |
| Elongation | 30β100 | 25β45 | % |
| Elastic Modulus | |||
| Density | |||
| Glass Transition Temp (Tg) | |||
| Melting Point | |||
| Water Absorption (24h) | |||
| Tensile Strength | |||
| Tensile Modulus | |||
| Elongation at Break | |||
| Charpy Impact (notched) | |||
| Density | |||
| Melting Point | |||
| Glass Transition Temp | |||
| Water Absorption (24h) | |||
| Water Absorption (saturation) | |||
| Continuous Use Temp |
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PA6 is stronger (UTS 80 vs 65 MPa), tougher (higher elongation), and cheaper. But PA6 absorbs moisture (1.5% vs 0.2%) which cuts dry properties by ~25% in service. POM-C has superior dimensional stability, lower friction, and better fatigue life. Choose PA6 for impact-loaded parts; POM-C for precision/dimensional parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PA6 (Nylon 6) the same as POM-C (Acetal Copolymer)?
PA6 (Nylon 6) and POM-C (Acetal Copolymer) have a 40% composition overlap. Both workhorse engineering plastics β different strengths
Can I replace PA6 (Nylon 6) with POM-C (Acetal Copolymer)?
Generally not recommended. The compositions differ significantly (40% overlap). These materials have different alloying concepts and are intended for different applications.
What is the difference between PA6 (Nylon 6) and POM-C (Acetal Copolymer)?
The main differences are in the following elements: overall alloying content. PA6 (Nylon 6) is a Polymers grade, while POM-C (Acetal Copolymer) is a Polymers grade.
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Data provided for reference only. Always verify against the applicable specification for critical applications.
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